Construction teams on site at SSE’s Tarbert Next Generation Power Station in Co. Kerry, where full civil works are now underway on Ireland’s first power station to run on sustainable biofuels.
SSE’s Tarbert Next Generation Power Station in Co. Kerry has now entered full construction, with foundations and civil works underway following completion of early enabling works at the site.
This marks a major milestone in the delivery of the up to €300m project, which will be the first of its kind in Ireland to run on sustainable biofuels. The new ‘peaker’ power station will have a generation capacity of 300MW, providing flexible, reliable power to strengthen Ireland’s security of supply and support a renewables-led electricity system.
The construction of the new power station marks the next chapter in the iconic site’s energy generation history, following the decommissioning of the original oil-fired plant in 2023 after more than 50 years of operation.
At peak delivery, the project is expected to support 200 full-time construction jobs. When completed in 2027, the day-to-day running of the station will create enduring jobs in the area with the creation of 14 new full-time roles.
Tarbert Next Generation Power Station will operate on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), sourced entirely from waste feedstocks and supplied in line with EU RED II sustainability standards. This pioneering approach provides a lower-carbon alternative to traditional fossil fuels and supports Ireland’s long-term climate and energy goals.
By future-proofing the site for hydrogen conversion, SSE is working to ensure Tarbert will continue to play a vital role in Ireland’s energy sector for decades to come.
Visiting the site to celebrate this important milestone, Councillor Michael Foley, Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, said: “Tarbert Power Station has long been a cornerstone of our community and economy. I have a personal connection as my late father worked on its construction in the 1960s, and he always spoke fondly of that time. Today’s progress marks a new chapter for Tarbert, sustaining employment and inspiring confidence in North Kerry’s future. SSE’s continued investment here is a catalyst for growth and a signal that this region can thrive as part of Ireland’s energy transition.”
Steve Lynch, Project Manager at SSE Thermal, said: “We’re delighted to have started construction on Tarbert Next Generation Power Station. As Ireland’s first power station to run on sustainable biofuels, it’s a cutting-edge project and represents a fitting next chapter in the site’s proud history.
“We’re committed to delivering the energy infrastructure Ireland needs as we transition to a low-carbon power system. This project, combined with our Platin Power Station in Co. Meath, represents a total investment of up to €600m in the country’s flexible generation capacity.”
SSE selected Ansaldo Energia and Limerick-headquartered Atlantic Projects Company (APC) as its lead partners on the project. Ansaldo’s AE94.3A turbine will offer the required flexibility and reliability needed for the Open Cycle Gas Turbine plant, while APC will provide balance of plant services.
Charles E. Collins, Managing Director, Atlantic Project Company, said: “At Atlantic Projects Company, we are proud to be part of the transformative journey in Ireland’s energy sector through Engineering, Procurement and Construction of the Tarbert Next Generation Power Station. We look forward to collaborating with all stakeholders to deliver a state-of-the-art facility that will play a crucial role in the country’s growing need for energy demand.”
